Montserrat official calls for greater understanding of CSME
Tuesday, November 11, 2003
BRADES, Montserrat: Claudia Skerritt, Regional Affairs Officer in the Office of Montserrat's Chief Minister says there is need for involvement and understanding of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) by both private and public sectors.
Mrs Skerritt recently attended the first meeting of CSME National Focus Points in Barbados.
According to Mrs Skerritt, the responsibilities, obligations, commitments and implications of the CSME should not be underestimated if Montserrat must continue as a full member state of Caricom.
Mrs Skerritt is recommending that the Revised Treaty and the CSME Manual of Administrative Procedures be circulated to all stakeholders and discussions held to clarify concerns.
She also thinks that technical assistance will be required during the first quarter of 2004 to develop a comprehensive corporate/strategic plan for regional affairs.
Mrs Skerritt recommends the development of a public education programme in collaboration with the CSME Unit in Barbados during the second quarter of 2004.
The Caricom Heads of Government conference, held in Trinidad in February 2003, mandated that member states be compliant in several key areas by December 31, 2003.
"The significant issue for Montserrat is the Free Movement of Persons," said Mrs Skerritt.
These areas are as follows:
1. Free Movement of Skills
-
Wage earners (graduates, artistes, media workers, musicians, sports persons);
-
Non-wage earners ( self-employed business men and service providers);
-
Wage-earners within the context of the provision of services/right of establishment (managerial, supervisory, technical staff) and;
-
Spouse or dependents
2. Hassle Free Travel
-
Common lines, labeled Caricom Nationals and Non-Caricom nationals;
-
Common E/D forms;
-
Acceptance of national ID cards from all Member States.
In recent talks involving the Montserrat Government, Caricom Secretariat and officials from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Montserrat reiterated its full commitment to Caricom including the CSME and the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in its original jurisdiction.
Back...
Most popular
articles: viewed, printed and e-mailed
Printable
version
| 
